Why I’m not switching to Signal (yet)
Back in 2020, I shared my journey away from Whatsapp in my post “Why I Ditched Whatsapp. Here’s Why You Should, Too,” celebrating the peace of mind that comes from cutting out digital clutter. Recently, some friends have asked if I’m considering a switch to Signal.
Here’s a quick rundown of my current thinking.
Why Some Might Prefer Signal
Open-Source Transparency
Signal’s open-source nature is a major draw for privacy enthusiasts. With its code open for review, you can trust that its security protocols are robust and transparent. Great if you’re particularly cautious about digital privacy.
Cross-Platform Flexibility
Signal works seamlessly across both Android and iOS. That comes in handy if you have friends that do not own iPhones, lol.
Minimal Data Collection
Signal distinguishes itself by collecting very little metadata. Which is a good thing. For those who are deeply concerned about privacy and data tracking, like me.
Why iMessage Remains My Go-To
Seamless Ecosystem Integration
iMessage is built into iOS, making it an integral part of the Apple ecosystem. It not only offers cross-device continuity, effortless SMS fallback, and native notification support, but also works harmoniously with Siri, Photos, Maps, and other native services. This unified integration streamlines sharing, coordinating, and communicating — boosting productivity and reducing digital friction, all while keeping your messaging experience simple and intuitive.
No Need for a Second App
Perhaps the most fundamental reason for sticking with iMessage is that I don’t want another messaging app cluttering up my phone. With iMessage pre-installed and fully integrated into iOS, I enjoy a streamlined, unified communication experience without the hassle of managing multiple platforms. As noted in a recent Ars Technica article, iMessage’s significant security enhancements reinforce the convenience and confidence I already have in this single, integrated tool.
I’m keeping things simple.
While iMessage now boasts significant security enhancements and offers a highly integrated, efficient, and unified communication experience, I recognize that Signal has its own compelling benefits — especially for those who value open-source transparency and cross-platform use. But with half the population now torn between Whatsapp and Signal (and Telegram, you know who you are), I don’t feel compelled to change just yet.
For now, my digital life is best served by keeping things simple with iMessage, eliminating the need for a second messaging app and all the complexity that comes with it. I did create an account under a different phone number, just to check the functionality and keep up on a weekly basis with the threads in one of the groups that were recently created.
Feel free to revisit my earlier post if you’re curious about the journey that led me here. Happy messaging!
PS: I don’t like to say “Told you so”, but I have been advocating against Whatsapp since 2018. This year everyone’s finally seems to be catching on. I guess it’s the sad (and a bit lonely) story of the innovator, years ahead of the game. Maybe that’s why my company was called Innovators Inc. :-)
